I tried to post this earlier and it timed out. We'll try again. I started doing a full groom on my mini schnauzer and believe me, if I can do it, anyone can. I bought a DVD from Jodi Murphy to take the mystery out of it...a gentleman also sells DVDs to grooming schools, but I don't recall his name--I would just google grooming DVD's and see what comes up. I bought the Andis 2 speed clipper, therapet adjustable grooming table/with arm/loop, blades (size 10 and 7F were recommended for my breed of dog as was a 40 for certain areas, though I was told that a 40, I could cut her if I didn't know what I was doing so I simply use the 10 instead), bought ceramic blades to help them not heat up as quickly, blade cleaner/oil/cooler, thinning shears, straight and curved shears, ear powder, toe nail clippers, etc. Just know that your dog might push your buttons moreso than someone professional. For us, our dog is skiddish of strangers so it is a better solution than having her continue to go to the groomers. I highly recommend looking into doing these expensive hypoallergenic breeds on your own as I will have more than paid for my materials in about a yr, which is great since she is only 8 mo old. I've actually been surprised that people have asked me who does her grooming b/c they think she looks cute--I'm also joking to not make fun of her b/c mamma grooms her. I've tried it 3x and it has already gotten easier for both of us. Definitely get either a DVD or watch someone do it though vs simply getting a book--my opinion--there are several safety things to consider so you don't hurt them. One tip is to go outward on the ears--never inward as you can cut them and the little ear flaps you still have to be careful about. You also will want to check the clipper blades against the inside of your wrist--if you are slow, then will heat up. They shouldn't even be warm when being used as you can burn your dog. I was scared about these things, but once I did it once, it was no big deal. Would love to hear from others who do the full groom on their dogs.